Housing Initiatives

The Future of Housing in Los Angeles County

The Department of Regional Planning is working to increase housing choice, affordability and livability in the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County. Read below to learn more about our newest housing initiatives. If you have any questions, please contact the General Plan Development / Housing Section at housing@planning.lacounty.gov.

Accessory Dwelling Units

Image credit: Karen Chapple, UC Berkeley

Accessory dwelling units, also known as ADUs, “backyard homes,” or “granny flats,” are an existing source of lower-cost housing in single-family neighborhoods. They can provide rental income for homeowners or additional living space for family members. The County is updating its regulations on ADUs to comply with State laws that encourage ADUs and provide more flexibility for homeowners. More information can be found at the County’s ADU page.

Density Bonus Ordinance Update

Los Angeles County’s Density Bonus Ordinance encourages developers to provide low-income housing by providing additional density and other zoning incentives. The County is updating its existing Density Bonus Ordinance to provide incentives for deeper affordability, a longer affordability period and preservation of affordable units. More information can be found at the Density Bonus Ordinance page.

Compact Lot Subdivisions

The intent of the Compact Lot Subdivision Ordinance is to promote affordable home ownership through the allowance of smaller, fee simple lots, in areas zoned for two-family and multi-family housing where infill development is encouraged. A “compact lot subdivision” is a land division that creates single-family residential lots with an area of less than 5,000 square feet. These compact lots are generally less than 50 feet wide, with modifications to other development standards, including but not limited to setback, street frontage, and access requirements. More information can be found at the County’s Compact Lot Subdivision Ordinance page.